Oscar Elite acoustic plaster ceiling in Ottolenghi’s ROVI restaurant.
Sownd Certification, developed by Sownd Affects, is the world’s first framework for audio-inclusive design, translating acoustic performance into a clear, evidence-based accreditation clients can understand. While particularly valuable for noise-sensitive users, it improves focus, communication, wellbeing and overall experience for everyone.
In an era of human-centred architecture, acoustic design is as critical as light, form and material. The way a space sounds shapes comfort, concentration, connection, dwell time and ultimately, commercial value. Getting it wrong carries a high cost. Poor acoustics are estimated to cost UK businesses over £40 billion each year through lost productivity, increased staff turnover and reduced customer satisfaction. Across workplace, hospitality and public environments, noise can quietly undermine the success of otherwise well-designed spaces.
SonaSpray Eco+ acoustic spray in Downstairs at dMFK (photo: Ed Reeve).
Why audio-inclusivity matters
Around 30 per cent of the UK population identifies as noise-sensitive, including people with hearing or visual challenges, neurodiverse individuals such as those with autism or ADHD, and others who experience sensory overload in poorly designed spaces. For these users, acoustics can be the difference between a space that welcomes and one that excludes.
SonaSpray K-13 Special at dMFK HQ – 76 Charlotte St, London (photo: Killian O’Sullivan).
A certification architects can specify with confidence
Sownd Certification integrates seamlessly into design workflows. Its Bronze level aligns with standards including BS 8233, BB93 and HTM 08-01, providing credible recognition without adding complexity. For architects and specifiers, it transforms acoustics from a compliance requirement into a visible design asset, strengthening proposals and demonstrating leadership in wellbeing, inclusivity and ESG objectives.
The certification also connects acoustic quality with measurable return on investment. Research links good acoustics with increased productivity, reduced absenteeism, higher employee retention and better customer experiences. In commercial and hospitality settings, this makes acoustic design both a human-centred and commercially strategic consideration.
SonaSpray K-13 acoustic ceiling spray in office breakout space. BW Workplace Experts and tp bennett (photo: Hufton+Crow).
Oscar Acoustics: an automatic route to Bronze recognition
Oscar Acoustics’ flagship finishes – Oscar Elite acoustic plaster and SonaSpray acoustic sprays – automatically qualify for Bronze Sownd Certification once installed. This provides architects with a rare advantage: the ability to embed certified, audio-inclusive performance through a single specification decision, without additional administration or design compromise.
These products deliver high acoustic absorption while integrating seamlessly into the architecture. Oscar Elite provides a plaster-smooth finish for refined interiors, while SonaSpray offers flexibility across complex geometries, with a wide range of colours and textures to support design intent.
These class-leading finishes exceed the latest fire safety expectations under Approved Document B, achieving Class 0 (BS476) and B-s1,d0 ratings, with minimal smoke production and no flaming droplets. SonaSpray also supports leading environmental and wellbeing standards, including WELL, SKA, BREEAM, M1, GREENGUARD Gold and Cradle-to-Cradle.
The Oscar Innovation Centre is set to become the world’s first Sownd Certified building (photos: Antonia Stuart).
A new design advantage
Sownd Certification gives architects a tangible way to demonstrate leadership in inclusive design, and Oscar Acoustics provides a direct, specification-ready route to achieve it. The result is architecture that not only looks exceptional but performs better for every occupant, making acoustic comfort a measurable, integrated part of design excellence.
To find out more about Sownd Certification visit Oscar Acoustics. To speak to an acoustic expert, call 01474 854902, or email.
